In 1948, The Hudson Review began publication with a commitment to include poetry, along with other literary genres, in every issue. The poems it has published since its inception have, the Editors trust, reflected a reasonably catholic taste and an attitude that has remained broadly responsive to many different varieties of style and form. In general, the goal has been to find poets who speak with their own voices rather than in conformity to prevailing fashions, and to single out the best work without too much regard for its possible affiliation with one or another particular school or movement.

On the occasion of its 55th anniversary in 2003, the Editors invited a sampling of Hudson Review poets to read poems of their own that were first published in the magazine. They responded with enthusiasm. These representative voices—recorded in homes and offices all over the country—are assembled in this historic presentation in celebration of the many kinds of poetry published by The Hudson Review over the years.